NEWSLETTER

OUR MISSION: To preserve the natural and cultural heritage of El Charco del Ingenio, and maintain a botanical garden dedicated to the conservation and study of regional flora and ecosystems, with a primary focus on environmental education.

INAUGURATION OF SCULPTURE IN EL CHARCO

This September and in the context of the 25th anniversary of the Botanical Garden, we will open the panoramic sculpture designed by the renowned German artist Wilhelm Holderied, whose work is characterized by a creative and dynamic dialogue with nature (http: //www.wilhelm -holderied.de/index.php/index.html).

The sculpture is located in the northern reserve of E Charco del Ingenio, across the canyon and dam. It consists of a stone structure integrated into the natural landscape, in the shape of a maze, which is also a celestial observatory of the main astronomical dates that govern us. "The House of Starlight" is the name of this work interacting with the natural environment of the reserve, which is dedicated to Mexican sculptor Helen Escobedo. A generous offer by master Holderied, supported by external promoters, like Sergio Cházaro and Eduardo Adame –coordinator of the project since its inception-- who have struggled to obtain funds for the work. Phyllis Pitluga, astronomer emeritus of the Chicago Planetarium also advised on this project, as did Marco Barrera Bassols, curator and renowned museographer. The Botanical Garden is in charge of the landscape design.

The inauguration of the sculpture occurs during the Germany-Mexico Dual Year, which commemorates 100 years of friendship between the two nations. The event will be preceded by an exhibition and auction of works and watercolors by master Holderied in the House of Europe in Mexico (Casa de Europa), located in the historic center. To these commemorative events the Ambassador of Germany in our country, the Director of the Goethe Institute, the Mayor of San Miguel de Allende and the Governor of the State have been invited, in addition to prominent figures of culture and local and national civil society.

Admission is free.

THE SEASONS IN SAN MIGUEL

By Phyllis B. Pitluga, Astronomer Emerita)
Thursday, September 22
1pm

As we orbit toward the September equinox on September 22, seasons on Earth officially change. For us in the northern hemisphere, the season becomes autumn (in the southern hemisphere, the season becomes spring). The changing seasons are because we live on a tipped planet (23.5 degrees) that orbits the sun (1 year).

In San Miguel, the sun crosses the midday sky as follows:

June = overhead

September = 3/4 up in the south

December = 1/2 up in the south

March = 3/4 up in the south

June = overhead

In San Miguel, midday is about 40 minutes after our watches read noon. This is because Mexico has one time zone that spans from the Yucatan to Baja California. We are farther west than the center of this zone so we have to wait approximately 40 minutes more for the sun to cross highest in the sky for each day. When it is summer time, the sun is highest here 1 hour and 40 minutes later.

Now there will be two places at the Botanic garden that mark the changing seasons. The Solar Observatory in the children’s garden and at the new sculpture being dedicated this equinox.

NEW ROUTE OF HIGHWAY SILAO-SMA: TRIUMPH OF CIVIL SOCIETY

After more than three years of conflict, state and federal authorities have finally accepted a new line for this road project, accepting the minimal impact on the natural and cultural heritage of our town, and especially to the territory of indigenous communities in the basin of the rivers San Damiano and Laja. The projected toll road, according to the initial plan, would have meant the destruction not only of archaeological sites and ritual and everyday spaces of the Otomi settlements, but also threatened the important heritage area between San Miguel and the Sanctuary of Atotonilco, under the protection of UNESCO. Following the appeal filed in 2014 by the representative of these communities, Magdaleno Ramirez, with the support of civil organizations, a federal judge suspended the ongoing tender because the consultation required by law had not been made.

Finally, the authorities have seen reason and proposed the new line outside indigenous territories north of Atotonilco and connected to Highway 57, freeing all the heritage area of ​​increased traffic from heavy cargo vehicles. Under the proposed new line, the highway will connect San Miguel to Guanajuato and El Bajio (including the Silao airport), but without the terrible impact on our heritage as in the original project.

A triumph of reason and common interest over bureaucratic folly and businesses of a few ... A successful example of civil society resistance. Congratulations!

FUNDRAISER CELEBRATION FOR EL CHARCO DEL INGENIO

On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Botanical Garden, Camino Silvestre is generously organizing an extraordinary celebration of fundraising for this natural and community space, as well as the Hummingbird Festival which takes place in San Miguel de Allende. This great gathering includes dinner, dancing and music, inspired by the famous Son Jarocho group, Los Vega, and will take place on the side of the Dome at El Charco.

INTRODUCING THE HERBARIUM "WALTER L. MEAGHER"

Do you know what an herbarium is? We can say that is a scientific collection of dried plants for study. For its appearance and performance, it is often regarded as a "library of plants". It’s a collection of dried plants, properly prepared and usually mounted on a card; these plants are called "herbarium specimens". Each copy is made, if possible, with all of its parts: leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds; and is accompanied by a label with the corresponding data of the copy in question.

Herbarium provide essential botanical information: scientific and common names of plants, their geographical distribution, flowering times, its uses and morphological characteristics. These collections are vital to understanding the biodiversity of each region and to generate environmental public policies. For this reason, herbarium are regarded as fundamental and strategic entities in the knowledge and conservation of the diversity of the plant world.

Just over 15 years ago our dear friend, the naturalist Walter L. Meagher (we named our herbarium in his honor) became interested in the knowledge of plant diversity and its conservation in El Charco del Ingenio, and began the first effort of systematic collection of botanical specimens. However, it was not until 2013 when an herbarium was formally established to receive these specimens. Currently we have 2000 herbarium specimens representing the flora in El Charco del Ingenio and some more Flora of the Palo Huerfano range (Picachos).

If you are interested in knowing about the flora in our region, or if you require information on the use, scientific or common name, etc. of some plant species, we're at your command! Send us your questions or email: elcharcobotanica@gmail.com

MONOCULTURES

Monocultures are large tracts of land with crops of a single species, where most of the products obtained are intended for export.

One of the most important results of this system to the environment is soil depletion and erosion since a single species has particular nutritional requirements that eventually end up running out where the monoculture is established. The second is the loss of biodiversity by transforming large ecosystems into cultivated land without even mentioning the indiscriminate use of pesticides that transcends the borders of the land and kilsl native pollinators and useful plants such as lambs quarter and some wild medicinal ones. Among the social effects are unfair competition with traditional producers, deterioration of the landscape, the decline in local food production and the expulsion of the rural population.

In San Miguel de Allende these effects have been observed in several areas of its territory, mainly for the production of alfalfa for cattle feed, broccoli, onions, vineyards, among others. The solution is for us as consumers to opt for a biodiverse diet based on local products which also comes from small producers. Thus, not only we avoid the establishment of more industrial monocultures, but we support production and an economic system that is local and keep indigenous people on their land.

TREES OF EL CHARCO
PALO DULCE OR VARADUZ. (Eysenhardtia polystachya)

It is a shrub or small tree belonging to the family Fabaceae (Leguminosae), same as peas and beans, measuring 2 to 8m high, with fissured and coffee-greyish bark; its leaves are composed of numerous elliptic leaflets, with evident amber glands on the underside; its flowers are white, fragrant, arranged in tight and vertical clusters; its fruits are hanging pods of 1 to 1.5 cm long, yellowish-brown or reddish-brown when ripe.

The empirical medicinal use of E. polystachya dates from pre-Hispanic times within the Mesoamerican culture. Their anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and insecticidal properties have been evaluated in various lab studies; besides, in more recent years, due to its cytotoxic activity, there has been great interest in its possible anti-cancer activity –-surprising, isn’t it?

Here’s a hint to help you find them – look for their favorite visitor – bees – on the main path to the Conservatory of Mexican Plants.

AUTHORITIES DENY SEVERE WATER CRISIS IN GUANAJUATO

Last March a Water Forum Action from the Company took place at the Botanical Garden of San Miguel de Allende, well attended with a diverse population, at which the crisis affecting the water element in Guanajuato and specifically in the so-called Independence Basin, which covers seven municipalities in the north of the state was discussed for two days. As a result of the Forum, dozens of civilians --organizaciones participants, scientists, environmentalists, farmers and citizens in general-- signed and issued the Declaration of Charco del Ingenio. This manifesto summarizes the dire water situation in the basin, emphasizing the increasing pollution of both the aquifer and the shallow channels, derived from an irrational and unsustainable extractive model. The manifesto also requires state and federal authorities to implement public policies to address the alarming crisis that threatens public good and a fundamental human right: water.

The Declaration was formally submitted in April to the competent authorities: the Director of the National Water Commission in the State, the Federal Secretary of Health, the Governor of Guanajuato, the State Water Commission, the Secretary of State Health and municipal authorities, and was disseminated through local and national media. Several months after being delivered, the Declaration of Charco del Ingenio has not received any response from officials who persist in denial and concealment of a water collapse which undeniably affects the health of the inhabitants of the Independence Basin.

How much longer must we wait before authorities decide to confront the water crisis in Guanajuato?

FALL EQUINOX CEREMONY

COMING SOON!

BOTANICAL ILLUSTRATION WORKSHOP

November 28 to December 2

In collaboration with the Denver Botanical Garden, El Charco del Ingenio offers a Botanical Illustration workshop again. The course consists of drawing lessons with accurate and useful descriptions of the plant kingdom. Students develop an understanding and appreciation of science and art, and an assessment of plants beyond botany.

It will conclude with the development of a sophisticated drawing ready to be framed or displayed, or to be included in a personal portfolio.

PREHISPANIC ASTRONOMY MUSEUM AND TRADITIONAL DINING IN SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE

In the Community of Agustin Gonzalez, just three kilometers from the dam of the Presa Allende and 20 minutes from San Miguel, there is a Pre-Columbian Astronomy Museum and its new local Mexican food restaurant, Zänä.

Zänä’s menu is designed so that visitors can become familiar with the contents of Mesoamerican life through the local cuisine and the fruits of the field of each season.

Museum, cyberspace and restaurant is now combined with the wish to consolidate our vision and mission in the municipality of San Miguel de Allende:

• Promote research and protection of cultural heritage of the region.
• To strengthen, consolidate and dignify local traditions of indigenous peoples.
• Build opportunities for human, economic, social and educational development for communities near the Pre-Columbian Ceremonial Center of Cañada de la Virgen.
• Encourage pride in children and youth in their roots and history, develop interest in scientific knowledge and exchange of knowledge between cities and countryside, as well as the value of teamwork and solidarity.

OTHER SEPTEMBER ACTIVITIES

Bird-watching Tours

Every first and third Wednesday of the month, 9 am – 11:30 am. English Cost: 100 pesos general public | 60 pesos El Charco members
Guides include Signe Hammer, Norman Besman, Luke Rich and Michael Wheatcroft.
The walks are for birders of all levels. They begin at 9:00 am and last about 2 1/2 hours. No reservations needed, and feel free to leave the walk at any time. Please bring binoculars, wear comfortable walking shoes and a hat, and bring water. Your guide will meet you after you pass through the Reception area of the Botanical Garden.

Come and bird watch with us – you’ll be surprised!!

Tours in Spanish on September 17 at 10a.m. in Parque Juarez with Landy Orozco, Director of Biology.

Info.:charcodelingeniocomunicacion@gmail.com

Guided Tours in El Charco

Tuesdays and Thursdays 10 am

Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 am| in English
Duration: two hours Cost: $80 pesos, members $50

Visit the Conservatory of Mexican Plants, the Scented Garden and the canyon, archeological ruins and much more. We recommend you wear sunscreen, and bring a hat.

Don’t forget the free transportation from town to El Charco on these days.

THE FULL MOON CEREMONY

Friday, September 16th / 7p.m. | admission 40pesos

We invite everyone to this open celebration that has been taking place for many years during the full moon cycle at the Four Winds Plaza in the Botanical Garden under the always surprising direction of Alicia Mayo. It’s worth arriving a little early to admire the setting of the sun and the appearance of the moon over the mountains. You may want to bring a coat for cool evenings and you may bring a musical instrument.

This sweat-lodge steam bath, of ritual and healing character, takes place under the direction of an experienced temazcal leader in the ruins of the hacienda located in the Botanical Garden on the far side of the reservoir.
The combination of heat, humidity and fragrant herbs provides a purifying experience for the body and spirit. Its benefits are multiple: it activates circulation, increases the body’s defenses, eliminates pains, decreases uric acid, relaxes the muscles, regulates the nervous system, stimulates respiration and is excellent for losing weight.

We suggest bringing a flashlight for when you go from the temazal to the reception

FREE TRANSPORTATION TO THE BOTANICAL GARDEN FROM THE HISTORICAL CENTER

COMING TO EL CHARCO BY TAXI?

Some of visitors use taxis for transportation to the Botanical Garden. However, some may have doubts about how to return to town. We remind all our visitors and users that El Charco has an agreement with radio taxis company of San Miguel for safe transfer from El Charco to the center or other parts of the city. Just ask for a taxi at the reception Garden. The fee for the return trip is 60 pesos-a little more than one-way fare to Charco from the center, which should not be more than 40 pesos. We recommend you and the driver agree on the fare before boarding the taxi.

PUBLICATIONS OF THE BOTANICAL GARDEN

Throughout its existence, El Charco has published several books and pamphlets in Spanish and English, on flora and natural resources of the reserve and the region of San Miguel de Allende. To these, other publications by researchers and scientific institutions on related subjects have been added. All are issues of great interest and quality, and are on sale at the Gift Shop.

Click on the book for more information about it.

At the Café

New weekend menu – Delicious !
Saturdays and Sundays
Breakfast from 9a.m. to noon
Special of the Day from noon to 4p.m.

Our coffee is among the best in town.

We have received new publications from Conabio (National Commission for the Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity)

WHEN YOU VISIT THE BOTANICAL GARDEN….

BRING YOUR THERMOS OR WATER BOTTLE, which can be filled for free from the wáter fountain near the reception/café.

El Charco del Ingenio is plastic bottle free zone, and, for obvious reasons, they are not sold on site since they become garbage, rarely recycled, representing an unnecesary expense for the user and a benefit for the corporations that exploit groundwater.